Echizen Great Buddha

6 of 10 in Fukui

Daishizan Seidaiji Temple (大師山清大寺, Daishizan Seidaiji) in Katsuyama is a massive temple complex near the Fukui Dinosaur Museum and Heisenji Shrine. Built in the 1980s by a local taxi company owner, it was inspired by Nara’s famous Todaiji Temple — but even larger and made of concrete. The visit begins with a walk along a shop-lined path, leading to a wide slope that passes two grand temple gates before reaching the main hall.

Inside stands the 17-meter bronze Echizen Great Buddha, the tallest indoor Buddha statue in Japan. The giant statue is flanked by four Bodhisattvas and surrounded by over a thousand smaller stone figures, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere. Visitors can also explore Japan’s tallest five-story pagoda, standing 75 meters high. An elevator takes you to the top for panoramic views. Other features include a peaceful garden with a pond and a colorful reproduction of China's famous Wall of Nine Dragons.

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Echizen Great Buddha

Getting there

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The easiest way to reach the Great Buddha of Echizen is by car—about 40 minutes from central Fukui or 10 minutes from the Dinosaur Museum. Free parking is available.

Without a car, take the Echizen Railway from Fukui Station to Katsuyama Station (55 mins, 820 yen). From there, you can take a local bus (20 mins, 100 yen), but it only runs every 3–4 hours. On weekends and holidays (except in winter), a “Dinogon” tourist bus also connects the temple with Katsuyama Station, the museum, and Heisenji Shrine for 300 yen per ride. A taxi from the station to the temple costs around 1500 yen.